If you’re looking for a strong, versatile metal mesh that offers grip, airflow, and durability, steel raised expanded metal is an excellent choice. Unlike flattened expanded metal, it has raised strands that create texture—perfect for walkways, security fences, or architectural accents. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose, use, and install this practical material.
1. Steel Raised Expanded Metal – Product Fundamentals
Steel raised expanded metal (also called raised mesh or raised steel grating) is made from a single steel sheet, giving it more strength than welded or woven mesh. It’s defined by its raised, diamond-shaped strands that form a textured surface. Here are the most common product forms:
| Product Type | Key Features | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Raised expanded metal sheet | Flat, cut-to-size sheets (e.g., 4ft×8ft) | Walkways, machine guards, shelf bottoms |
| Raised expanded metal panel | Larger, pre-assembled panels (for facades) | Architectural cladding, sunshade screens |
| Raised expanded metal roll | Continuous lengths (1–3m width) | Large-scale projects (e.g., warehouse fences) |
| Raised steel grate | Thick strands (for heavy loads) | Trench covers, trailer ramps |
| Raised metal lattice | Small openings (for fine filtering) | HVAC filters, decorative partitions |
Real Example: A construction company used raised expanded metal sheet to make temporary walkways on a building site. The raised strands prevented workers from slipping in rain, and the mesh’s strength supported tool carts—saving the company from 2 potential slip-and-fall incidents.
2. Manufacturing & Production Processes
Steel raised expanded metal is made in a few key steps that turn a solid steel sheet into a textured mesh:
- Steel Coil Feeding: First, a steel coil feeding system feeds a solid steel coil (cold-rolled or hot-rolled) into the expansion machine.
- Slitting & Stretching: The machine uses sharp dies to cut slits in the steel sheet (this is die cutting steel mesh). Then, rollers stretch the sheet to create diamond-shaped openings—this step forms the “raised” strands. Unlike flattened mesh, it skips the cold-roll flattening step.
- Pattern Design: The raised pattern die design determines the opening size (e.g., small diamonds for filters, large diamonds for walkways).
- Line Speed Control: Expanded metal line speed is adjusted to ensure consistent openings—too fast, and the mesh can tear; too slow, and production is inefficient.
- Quality Control: Every batch is checked against standards like ASTM F1267 steel expanded metal and ISO 9001 steel mesh to ensure strength and opening accuracy. Many factories also follow ISO 14001 for eco-friendly production.
Fun Fact: The “slit-and-stretch process” doesn’t waste steel—since it’s made from a single sheet, there’s no scrap (unlike woven mesh, which cuts wire into small pieces).
3. Material Specifications & Standards
To pick the right raised expanded metal, you need to know its material type and key specs. Here’s what matters:
Common Materials
| Material Type | Key Traits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon steel raised expanded metal | Affordable, strong (ASTM A36) | Indoor walkways, machine guards |
| Galvanized steel raised mesh | Rust-resistant (ASTM A123 coating) | Outdoor fences, trailer ramps |
| Stainless steel raised expanded metal | Corrosion-proof (SUS304/SUS316) | Food processing, marine projects |
Key Specifications
- Strand Thickness: Typically 1.5mm–10mm (thicker = stronger; 4mm–6mm is best for walkways).
- SWD/LWD: SWD (Short Way of Diamond) (e.g., 25mm) and LWD (Long Way of Diamond) (e.g., 50mm) describe opening size.
- Strength: Tensile strength raised mesh ranges from 400–600 MPa; yield strength steel mesh is 250–400 MPa (stronger than woven mesh).
4. Dimensions, Patterns & Open-Area Configurations
The size and pattern of raised expanded metal determine its use. Here are common options:
| Pattern/Size | Open-Area Percentage | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 inch #13 raised expanded steel | ~60% | HVAC filters, small machine guards |
| 3/4 inch #9 raised mesh | ~50% | Shelf bottoms, decorative screens |
| 1 inch #13 raised metal | ~65% | Walkways, catwalks |
| 1-1/2 inch #16 raised steel | ~70% | Facade cladding, sunshades |
| Micro mesh raised steel | <30% (small openings) | Fine filtering (e.g., oil filters) |
Open-Area Tip
Higher open-area percentage (e.g., 70%) means more airflow/light—great for facades. Lower percentage (e.g., 30%) is better for filtering or security (harder to climb through).
5. Surface Finishes & Coatings
To boost durability and appearance, raised expanded metal can have different finishes:
- Hot-Dip Galvanized: The mesh is dipped in molten zinc—best for outdoor use (resists rust for 10+ years).
- Electro-Galvanized: A thin zinc layer applied via electricity—cheaper than hot-dip, good for indoor/outdoor with light moisture.
- Powder Coated: A dry powder baked on (polyester or epoxy)—comes in colors (black, gray) and resists scratches (ideal for architectural projects).
- PVC Coated: A soft PVC layer—adds grip (great for flooring) and resists chemicals (used in food plants).
- Mill Finish: No coating—natural steel look, best for indoor, dry areas (e.g., shelf mesh).
Example: A coastal restaurant used stainless steel raised expanded metal with a marine-grade coating for its outdoor patio screens. The coating resists saltwater rust, and the mesh lets ocean breezes through.
6. Mechanical & Physical Properties
Steel raised expanded metal’s strength and performance make it stand out:
| Property | Typical Values (Carbon Steel) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 450–550 MPa | Supports heavy loads (e.g., tool carts on walkways) |
| Load Capacity | 300–800 lbs/sq ft (depends on strand thickness) | Safe for pedestrian traffic |
| Impact Resistance | Withstands 15 J of force (no cracking) | Doesn’t break if hit by tools or debris |
| Slip Resistance | High (textured raised strands) | Prevents falls on wet walkways |
| Weight per m² | 5–20 kg/m² | Easy to install (lighter than solid steel) |
Test Result: A lab test showed that 6mm strand raised mesh withstood 500 lbs/sq ft—enough for 2 workers plus tools.
7. Applications & End-Use Industries
Steel raised expanded metal is used across industries for its versatility:
- Construction: Raised steel mesh catwalks, trench covers, and stair treads (safe, slip-resistant).
- Security: Steel mesh security fences and machine guards (hard to climb/cut through).
- Architecture: Raised steel mesh façade cladding and sunshades (modern look, lets light through).
- Industrial: HVAC expanded steel filters, conveyor belt steel mesh, and mining screens (durable, easy to clean).
- Automotive: Radiator grille and trailer ramps (resists road debris).
Case Study: A solar farm used galvanized raised expanded metal for its panel supports. The mesh let wind pass through (reducing wind damage) and withstood outdoor weather for 5 years without rust.
8. Installation, Fastening & Accessories
Installing raised expanded metal is easy with the right tools and accessories:
- Fasteners: Use self-drilling screws (for wood/steel frames) or grating clamps (for metal walkways). For outdoor projects, choose corrosion-resistant fasteners.
- Edging: Add angle iron edging raised mesh or U-edge trim to prevent sharp edges (safer for installation).
- Framing: Use steel expanded metal framing (galvanized or powder-coated) to support large panels (e.g., facades).
- Suspension: For ceilings or overhead screens, use suspension rods to hang the mesh securely.
Installation Tip: Leave a 10mm gap between mesh sheets to allow for thermal expansion (prevents warping in hot weather).
Yigu Technology’s Perspective
At Yigu Technology, we recommend steel raised expanded metal for clients needing strength and texture. We supply custom-cut mesh—from SUS316 stainless steel for marine projects to galvanized carbon steel for outdoor fences. We also provide installation guides, helping clients choose the right fasteners and edging. Our mesh meets ASTM and ISO standards, ensuring durability—we’ve helped construction and security clients cut maintenance costs by 30% vs. woven mesh.
FAQ
- Is steel raised expanded metal more slip-resistant than flattened mesh?
Yes! The raised strands create texture that grips shoes, making it better for wet walkways or ramps. Flattened mesh has a smooth surface, which can be slippery when wet. - Can it be used for outdoor projects?
Absolutely—choose galvanized or stainless steel with a marine-grade coating. This resists rust from rain/saltwater, lasting 10+ years outdoors. - How do I clean raised expanded metal?
For most dirt, hose it down with water. For grease (e.g., in kitchens), use a mild detergent and a brush (the raised strands are easy to scrub). Avoid harsh chemicals—they can damage coatings.
